In Galatians 5 Paul finally turns to the practical implications of the gospel of grace. Being saved by grace doesn’t give us a license to sin; it sets us free to live the life God wanted for us all along.
Talking Points:
- Jesus came to give us true freedom – not slavery to works on one side or to sin on the other. Seekers throughout the ages have sometimes misunderstood the gospel of grace, taking it as a license to sin. Paul addresses that error in several of his writings. Galatians 5:1, Romans 6:1-2
- True freedom is about getting back to the original intent of the Law: love God, love others. This is what Jesus modeled to his disciples, and it’s at the heart of what God is about. Galatians 5:13-14, Matthew 22:37-40
- True freedom can only be achieved from the inside-out, and it’s the product of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. The “fruit” of the Spirit is contrasted with the “works” of the flesh, and the two are constantly at war with each other. Paul teaches the Galatians to make a practice of walking by the Spirit. Ezekiel 36:26-27, Galatians 5:16-17, 25
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- How have you seen Christians misunderstand or misuse the gift of grace? How do you explain why grace isn’t an excuse to live however we want?
- Read Galatians 5:1 and Romans 6:1-2. What do you think Paul means when he says not to get tied up in slavery to the law? What does it mean that we are dead to sin?
- Read Galatians 5:13-14 and Matthew 22:37-40. How have you seen people use their freedom in Christ to justify ungodly actions? How does our freedom in Christ help us to love others?
- Do you agree that the church culture in America tends more towards trampling on grace rather than being too legalistic? Explain.
- Read Ezekiel 36:26-27. How have you seen your heart change or soften since putting your trust in Jesus? How does the Holy Spirit help us to live out our faith?
- Read Galatians 5:16-17. Share how you’ve battled between your flesh and the Spirit in your life? What are some things you do to fight temptation and follow the Spirit’s leading?
- Review the lists of the flesh and Spirit. How have you seen the relational sins of the flesh do damage to yourself and others? How have you seen the fruits of the Spirit heal broken relationships?
- Which fruit of the Spirit is strong in your life right now? Which one is lacking? (See Galatians 5:22-23)
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
